Hoog Catharijne – Stadskamer

Warm with blue waters

The Stadskamer in Utrecht is the new beating heart of shopping mall Hoog Catharijne.

In addition to the architectural designs of STIR Architecture, D/DOCK designed the complete interior (and upgraded the dynamics of the water islands). The 15-meter-high, transparent interior space succeeds in integrating indoors and outdoors. The space connects two parts of the shopping center and by using a glass roof, large glass windows and three water islands, the city presents itself to the visitors.

The history of the town Utrecht is strongly connected to and with water: these were the trade routes through the canals in the past days. In these Stadskamer spaces, one can see history coming to life by the boats that will sail underneath the water islands, because they are connected to the outside canal.

D/DOCK provided the shopping promenade with inviting benches with rounded corners. The folding canopies for one side of the inner wall with LED strips will light up when closed. Opened they function as a decorative element. The square with restaurants and cafes is accessible from all sides and surrounded with terraces. Even when the stores are closed, it is still a lively square.

But if you are in Utrecht, do check it out yourself and experience the Stadskamer!